Chicago Teachers Prep for Possible Strike

The Chicago Teachers Union is threatening a mass strike if their demands aren't met by midnight on Sunday. If the walkout does occur, it would be the first in 25 years, reports CNN. Negotiations have been under way for 10 months between the union and the school board.

If it happens, it will affect about 400,000 students, including some from neighborhoods struggling with crime and gang problems.

City officials scrambled to minimize the disruption by setting up 144 sites to provide a "safe environment, food and engaging activities" for students if the strike occurs.

"If the leadership of the Chicago Teachers Union chooses to strike, no one will be hurt more than our students, and we are prepared to offer a safety net for families who are not able to access alternative options for their students," said Jean-Claude Brizard, the school system chief executive.